How to Cut Ductwork in Flooring

When you install a central heat and air conditioning unit in your home, you need to install ductwork leading to a diffuser into each room. Ductwork distributes the air throughout your home. You can easily cut through carpet or subflooring to install the diffuser, which releases the air into the room. The hardest part of the installation is measuring for the proper-sized hole. Cutting your own holes for ductwork saves you a good bit of money over hiring a professional.

Chalk
Utility knife
Pencil
Ruler
Drill
Reciprocating saw or jigsaw
Sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Locate an area along the floor approximately near the center of an outside wall. This is the best place to install your floor duct.
- 2
  Draw an outline where the diffuser is to be installed in the floor. If possible, draw your outline from the underside of the floor to ensure you clear all floor joists and electrical wiring. Use a straight edge to draw the opening 3 to 4 inches from the wall so it clears curtains and other items. The hole should be 12 inches long by 4 inches wide.
- 3
  Cut away any carpet with a utility knife to expose the subflooring. Make a guideline with chalk so you do not cut too much carpet.
- 4
  Drill a hole in the center of the outline. Check around the hole to make sure there are no obstructions that could be damaged on both the top and the bottom surface of the floor..
- 5
  Cut along the outline using a jigsaw or a reciprocating saw
- 6
  Sand the edges of the opening to ensure there are no rough edges.
- 7
  Place the diffuser into the hole to ensure a snug fit.

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